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After a long night of studying, working, or partying, waking up to a delicious meal is exactly what you need. If you’re looking for some good breakfast and brunch options in Gainesville, check out these awesome restaurants.
Metro Diner
Metro Diner is a classic Gainesville favorite, serving up delicious comfort food in a cozy atmosphere. Located in 34th St Plaza, this place is centrical and immensely popular. You can expect for lots of Gainesville locals and students having a quick bite for breakfast or brunch. The food here is amazing, with dishes like chicken & waffles and crab cake Benedict, along with perfectly cooked eggs, french toast, hash browns, and more. The portions are big too, so make sure you’re feeling hungry. You can also pair your breakfast or brunch dish with a refreshing Bloody Mary or Mimosa cocktail. The food here is definitely worth it, so if you don’t mind dealing with long wait-times and a noisy, bustling environment, definitely try Metro Diner.
43rd Street Deli & Breakfast House
This joint has been the go-to breakfast spot for Gainesville locals for years. 43rd Street has a hearty breakfast with big portions and lots of flavor. The restaurant is always cooking up tasty, home-cooked meals in no time -- you can usually get a table in 10 minutes or less. This place is always busy, but the staff there is used to it and the service is quick and great. There are also rotating, daily specials that are delicious; most people always order off this part of the menu, but the regular menu offers awesome, classic dishes as well. The portions are awesome for the price, and you can always be sure the food will be delightful. You can also enjoy vegan and vegetarian options that are equally good.
Country Foodly
Offering a variety of dishes with Korean-American fusion, Country Foodly is chill and inviting place that’s perfect for a quick bite early in the day. The place is fairly simple, with “bare-bones decor” and cozy seating options. Country Foodly serves no-frills comfort food, with favorites like the Bulgogi omelette, biscuits and gravy, and chicken and waffles. Experience is a quirky blend of culture and flavors at Country Foodly, and enjoy some of the best breakfast and brunch in town.
Flying Biscuit Cafe
If you want some true, Southern comfort food, look no further than Flying Biscuit Cafe. Cheesy grits, fluffy biscuits, and thick pancakes are just a few of the tasty dishes you can indulge in at this cafe. What’s more, this place serves breakfast all day, so if you’re feeling scrambled eggs for dinner, Flying Biscuit’s got you covered.
East End Eatery
East End Eatery is a casual all-American joint that makes you feel like family. The cute, homey interior provides a nice atmosphere while you enjoy classic breakfast and brunch favorites along with vegan, vegetarian, and gluten-free options. The wait staff is always very friendly and the customer service is great. Food is excellent, as well, offering good ol’ Southern comfort, using locally-sourced, sustainable ingredients. There’s also a kid’s play area and patio for when you, or the kids, need some fresh air.
Harvest Thyme Cafe
This local gem is an excellent breakfast and brunch spot, offering a variety of yummy American fare. Enjoy breakfast sandwiches, fruit smoothies, specialty coffee, fresh salads, hearty soups, and much more. The place also serves up a nice variety of veggie and gluten-free options, including mouth-watering waffles! Harvest Thyme’s environment here is super welcoming and relaxed -- you can expect a no-frills breakfast with great flavor and great service.
Peach Valley Cafe
Peach Valley Cafe is a cool, laid-back, local chain with a wide range of breakfast and brunch options. From apple fritters to pumpkin pancakes, Peach Valley’s menu will never disappoint, always serving up a creative dish for everyone. The atmosphere is really chill, and you can sip on a refreshing mimosa while you dig into your awesome meal. However, due to the popularity of this place, wait times tend to be pretty long. Peach Valley Cafe is always bustling and busy, but the easy-going vibe makes it so alluring. The covered patio, in particular, is very calm and tranquil -- and the area is also dog-friendly!